What's special about TAXIs is that they can be hailed on the streets, right? Uber's app essentially makes that over smartphones. So doesn't it make sense for TAXI drivers to be hailed using the Uber App? They keep complaining about competition, but why can't they just enjoy the awesomeness of Uber while on their shift? I feel like this is win-win. I mean they are all out there.

The Guru Take

The Uber rules do not allow this for most scenarios.

Uber's driver and vehicle requirements disallow this behavior for most taxi drivers. Here are two points I can point out from the vehicle requirements:

Uber does not allow “commercial branding or taxi color paint jobs”

Uber, as part of the background check, make sure the insurance has your name on it.

There may be additional clauses inside the terms drivers sign.

Of course, certain taxi drivers or companies perhaps in unregulated markets may be able to meet the requirements and hence drive for both. Limo companies with livery licenses will fit into this criteria, whehre they can be dispatched by their call center but as well as Uber's app.

UberTaxis: In certain markets, Uber offers UberTaxi where you can request a regular taxis using your Uber app. This is in cities where Uber has an arrangement with the taxi companies. Users are responsible for paying the regular taxi fare and they also are charged a fee from Uber. (Usually $1~ per ride.) The payment can either go through the Uber app or you are to pay the driver in cash, depending on which city you are in.